Businesses spray-painted: Corning police seek vandals

Monday

Jan 13, 2014 at 5:43 PM

The Corning Police Department is currently investigating a recent rash of vandalism at various locations throughout the cit

By Amber Brenzaabrenza@the-leader.com

The Corning Police Department is currently investigating a recent rash of vandalism at various locations throughout the city.
Eight businesses and locations around Corning, including 7-Eleven, Realty USA and Burger King, reported spray-painted graffiti on their building exteriors Friday morning. Also among the vandalized properties were a home on Spruce Street and a sign on Princeton Avenue.
Three more graffiti reports came in over the weekend. Lando's was among several other spots on Bridge Street that were hit, said owner Joe Lando.
“I got a call first thing Sunday morning from one of our workers here at Lando's,” Lando said. “They were going by and saw the artwork on the side of the building and called me, so I came over, took a look and called the police.”
The “artwork” Lando is referring to is the same at each vandalized location: a smiling face and a cigarette or joint with puffs of smoke coming from the end.
According to Corning police Sgt. Jon McDivitt, those responsible for the vandalism could be charged with making graffiti or fourth-degree criminal mischief, both misdemeanors punishable by up to one year in jail.
While police hunt for a suspect or suspects, the business owners plan to repair the damage.
“I think that some kid was just out beyond curfew,” Lando said. “I'm pretty confident that the Corning police will get to the bottom of it and there will be an arrest soon.”
Anyone with information is asked to call police at 962-0340, Ext. 1500.